A 64-year-old man has been threatened with a hammer during a "terrifying" armed robbery in West Lothian.

The incident happened at 5pm on Saturday when a Day-Today shop on Millhaugh Lane, Bathgate, was targeted by the hooded thief.

The man, who was in his 30s and wearing rigger boots, used a hammer to threaten the victim before stealing a sum of money and making off from the premises on foot.

Police are now appealing for information on the robbery as they bid to trace the man responsible.

Officers investigating the incident believe the suspect may have been in the shop as a customer earlier that day as they are appealing for anyone with information that could help with their enquires to come forward.

Constable Ally Urquhart said: "This was an extremely frightening incident for the victim and those who were in the premises at the time it occurred.

"We believe the man spoke with a local accent and could have visited the store previously as a customer.

"We're eager to hear from anyone who saw what happened, or can help us identity and trace the man responsible, as soon as possible."

Anyone with information is asked to contact 101.